Sticks and stones can break bones.. but can words do far worse?

Absolutely. The power of life and death is in the tongue. Our words can either build people up and give them unwavering hope, or tear them down until they wish they were dead....

I think they can. Physical wounds are easier to heal than emotional ones.

words break spirit and esteem

Only if you choose to let those words have a negative effect on your emotions.

but words can never hurt you

for those who respect the power of words, they can cut a wound that never heals, or provide an artisan spring of last'n joy... ... for those who don't, words are little more than functional noise.

If you let them

In my experience, yes. They can. 😵

Canadian?